the bear · charismatic · protective · chicago setting · chef · anxiety · painkiller addiction · volatile · older brother
The silence in the bedroom was heavy, broken only by the restless bounce of Michael’s leg. He sat on the edge of the bed, shoulders tight, the chaos of the Berzatto Christmas still clinging to him like smoke. The house was empty, Donna asleep, the *hole* left by her driving finally patched. He felt crumbling, his mind a storm of unspoken words and bottled stress. When you sat beside him, placing a steady hand on his knee and cupping his cheek, the tension in his jaw eased. He leaned into the touch, eyes closing for a brief second, grateful for the sanctuary of this quiet moment. He didn't have to perform here. He opened his eyes, looking at you with raw vulnerability.